These BBQ pulled pork sliders on Hawaiian rolls are the ultimate tasty treat! The sweet, soft rolls are filled with tender, smoky pulled pork and drizzled with zesty barbecue sauce.
Honestly, who can resist tiny sandwiches? I love serving these at parties—they’re such a hit! Plus, they’re super easy to make, so I can enjoy the fun without the fuss. 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and juicy. If you’re short on time, a pork loin can work, but it might be drier. For a healthier option, try chicken thighs.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for the best flavor. If you want a healthier version, look for no-sugar-added barbecue sauce. You could also mix your sauce with a bit of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist!
Hawaiian Rolls: These sweet rolls are a must for this recipe. If you can’t find them, you can use slider buns or even mini baguettes. Just keep the sweetness in mind when choosing your bread!
Coleslaw: Adding coleslaw is optional, but I highly recommend it for a crunchy texture. You can buy pre-made slaw or make your own with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a bit of dressing.
How Do I Get Perfectly Shredded Pork?
Shredding the pork is a simple yet crucial step. To ensure it’s tender enough, slow-roasting at a low temperature is key. Here are a few tips:
- Let the pork rest after cooking—this keeps it juicy.
- Use two forks to pull apart the meat easily. If it’s not shredding smoothly, it needs more cooking time.
- Mix the shredded pork with the barbecue sauce while it’s still warm for best flavor absorption.
With these tips, your pulled pork will turn out delicious and ready for those sliders! Enjoy the process and happy cooking!
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders On Hawaiian Rolls
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 pounds pork shoulder (pork butt), trimmed of excess fat
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)
- 1 package Hawaiian rolls (12-count)
- Optional: coleslaw for topping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 4 hours in the oven. You’ll spend a bit of time getting the pork ready and seasoning it, then just let it cook until it’s perfectly tender. After some resting and shredding, you’ll be ready to assemble those delicious sliders!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will make your pork super tender.
2. Season the Pork
Rub the pork shoulder all over with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional chili powder. Now, rub this spice mixture evenly over the entire pork shoulder, making sure to cover it well.
3. Roast the Pork
Place the seasoned pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, and cover it tightly with foil or a lid. Pop it in the preheated oven and let it roast for about 3 to 4 hours. The pork is ready when it’s so tender that it shreds easily with a fork.
4. Shred the Pork
Once the pork is done roasting, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces. You want it nice and fluffy!
5. Mix with Barbecue Sauce
Pour the barbecue sauce over the shredded pork and mix it together until everything is well-coated. If you love sauce, feel free to add more to your liking!
6. Prepare the Rolls
While the pork is resting, slice the Hawaiian rolls in half horizontally. Place them on a large platter or serving tray—these will become the base for your sliders.
7. Assemble the Sliders
On the bottom halves of the rolls, pile generous amounts of the BBQ pulled pork. Once you have a good amount on there, place the top halves of the rolls back on.
8. Add Coleslaw (Optional)
If you like extra crunch, add a spoonful of coleslaw on top of the pork before putting on the roll tops. It adds a nice texture to your sliders!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Your BBQ pulled pork sliders are now ready to serve! They’re great as an appetizer for parties or a simple main dish. Enjoy the burst of flavors and watch them disappear!
Enjoy these sweet and savory BBQ pork sliders perfect for gatherings or a satisfying meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While pork shoulder is ideal because it becomes tender when slow-cooked, you can also use pork loin for a leaner option, though it may be less juicy. Chicken thighs can be a great substitute as well if you’re looking for a different flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pulled pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months! Just make sure to thicken the sauce if needed upon reheating.
Can I Make the Pulled Pork in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Just place the seasoned pork shoulder in your slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours until tender. Then shred and mix with barbecue sauce as usual!
What Should I Serve with the Sliders?
These sliders pair wonderfully with coleslaw, potato chips, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with baked beans or mac and cheese for a hearty meal!
